There is an American saying: “In a New York minute”. This phrase refers to the fact that things seem to move quicker in New York than anywhere else, however, their celebrations are not quick, and the New Year in New York is celebrated over many days, spent in preparation and coordination. Being the largest of the celebrated New Year’s Eve happenings, thousands travel hundreds of miles to join in the fun at Times Square. Television crews converge upon “the big apple” to capture the magic and to share it with the world. Famous artists and musicians are present to sing and dance and to liven up the celebration. The New Year is supposed to be a happy time for everyone; and the state of New York invites all to be a part of their biggest night of the year!
Because New York is considered “the big apple”, there is a six foot ball that is actually shaped like an apple but there are so many lights on it that no one can tell, that begins to drop at precisely 11:59p.m. This “ball” is to hit the bottom precisely at 12:00a.m., on the 1st of January, marking the arrival of the New Year. This tradition began long ago when roof tops became the choice of a few of the owners of Times Square in which to celebrate the New Year. Then, in 1907 when the state of New York outlawed firecrackers to be used during the celebration, the “dropping” of the ball began and has been the most famously celebrated event of all time! The ball dropping at precisely midnight followed by toasting and singing, confetti throwing and everyone screaming “Happy New Year!” is the norm. The old year, typically symbolized by an old man with a long gray beard, is ushered out and the New Year, symbolized by a baby, is brought in.
Because this time of year s so cold, it is important to know what you will need to bring with you as you usher in the New Year in New York. As this option actually sounds very unattractive to most, safety should be first in anyone’s mind that is planning to attend this chaotic event! Keep in mind that the time of the event goes into the late night to early morning hours. This is the coldest time during our twenty four hour day. Dressing warm and bundling up will keep the weather from ruining your fun. As there are thousands in attendance, the recommendation to wear steel toed boots is not a bad one, save for the fact that steel will hold in the cold and when your feet are cold, all of you is cold. Wear comfortable shoes that you can stand in for many hours. As the type of shoes you wear will affect your back and spine, choose wisely.
Vendors flock to the Square during the New Year to sell their wares and to steal your money…that is, to charge you $3.00 for a cheeseburger! So, if you want to start the new year out without any debt, bring some snack foods that will tie you over until you can get somewhere out of the vicinity of the street vendors. But, best of all, make sure that you bring your family or friends. Nothing makes the New Year more special than when you can celebrate it with the ones you love! After all…you’ve got to kiss someone at midnight!